Related Coverage

HUBBARD, Ohio (WKBN) – A Hubbard high school football player is in the hospital after a hard hit during Friday night’s game against Edgewood in Ashtabula County.

Devin Howe is still in the intensive care unit at a Cleveland hospital being treated for a head injury.

Howe, who is a junior, was hit hard during a play in Friday night’s game. The player collapsed on the sideline, and medics quickly determined he had a head injury. Howe was flown by medical helicopter to Cleveland Metro where he underwent surgery.

Howe’s brother Greg posted the following on Facebook:

“My brother just went through brain surgery and the doctors said it went good so now it’s just a waiting game to see his progress during recovery. If you guys could send your prayers and blessings to Devin Howe it would be greatly appreciated. That boy is stronger than anyone knows and right now he can use all the support he can get.”

Head injuries in football games are all too common. In the U.S., athletes suffer from about 300,000 concussions every year.

Mike Oliver, executive director of the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment, said it could be time to look at a different approach to the game.

“I’m not talking about a radical change, but we are talking about playing the fame where you don’t use the head as a primary point of contact. Where you don’t intentionally batter or ram an opponent or try to use your helmet or head as a weapon,” Oliver said.

WKBN 27 First News provides commenting to allow for constructive discussion on the stories we cover. In order to comment here, you acknowledge you have read and agreed to our Terms of Service.
Commenters who violate these terms, including use of vulgar language or racial slurs, will be banned. No links will be permitted.
Please be respectful of the opinions of others. If you see an inappropriate comment, please flag it for our moderators to review.